It’s official; the Charlotte Hornets will be selecting with the second-overall pick in the 2023 NBA draft after starting the night with a 14% chance of acquiring the number one selection. As always, being so high in the lottery will give Charlotte the opportunity to add a talent that has genuine upside and a potential All-Star future, should they develop him right.
Given that Victor Wembanyama will undoubtedly be the number-one selection, the Hornets will likely be acquiring Brandon Miller to bolster their frontcourt – as Kevin O’Conner predicts in his latest draft big board for The Ringer. Miller is a one-and-done prospect who has exploded up the draft board throughout the season, courtesy of some stellar performances for the Alabama Crimson Tide.
In 37 collegiate games this season, Miller is averaging 18.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game while shooting the rock at a 43% clip from the field and 38.4% clip from the perimeter – also hitting 85.9% of his free-throw attempts.
Why the Hornets will change course
Miller, 20, has the potential to develop into a legitimate two-way wing, capable of being a playmaker, three-level scorer, and lockdown wing defender if he maximizes his potential. However, when selecting a prospect so high in the lottery, you have to ensure there is enough playing time to aid their development.
Fortunately, Miller is capable of playing three positions on the floor: shooting guard, small forward, and power forward. It’s that type of versatility that will give Steve Clifford an opportunity to be fluid with his lineups and ensure Miller gets all the opportunity he requires to develop into a genuine running mate for LaMelo Ball.
With an underperforming roster, an injury-prone star wing, and developing talent at the center and shooting guard positions, the Hornets are in a desirable starting position for a rebuilding project that will feature LaMelo at its core.
So, with Miller’s potential addition in mind, here are three ways that the Hornets’ second-overall draft selection will alter their off-season plans.